This course will serve as a general introduction to Korean history and culture from earliest times to the present. A broad historical overview of the various social, economic, political, and religious traditions in pre-modern Korea will be accompanied by an in-depth discussion of Korea's turbulent path towards modernization. Topics to be covered in this course include foundation myths, ancient literature, colonialism, civil war, authoritarianism, rapid industrialization, and democratization in Korea. In this course we will also examine the relation between state, family, gender, and class. Students will be asked to explore these and other topics by applying a context-sensitive reading and critical analysis of the material that will be covered in this course. There are no prerequisites, but some background in the study of history and culture is recommended. Readings will include both primary material in translation and secondary scholarship.

Course Requirements:

Quizzes, in-class writings and discussions (40%); four short papers (15% each). This course will also have extra credit opportunities.

Intended Audience:

Undergraduate students who intend to continue to take courses in Korean Studies or Asian Studies. Students who intend to major in history or comparative literature can also benefit from taking this course.

Syllabi are available to current LSA students. IMPORTANT: These syllabi are provided to give students a general idea about the courses, as offered by LSA departments and programs in prior academic terms. The syllabi do not necessarily reflect the assignments, sequence of course materials, and/or course expectations that the faculty and departments/programs have for these same courses in the current and/or future terms.